Problems in Evaluating Interviews of Children in Sexual Abuse Cases

Abstract

In this chapter we explore the problems posed by rapidly increasing reports of sexual abuse of children and the need for effective methods to obtain reliable and valid information from children who may have been sexually abused. It begins with a description of the problematic nature of interviews of children as they are currently conducted and evaluated in cases of suspected child sexual abuse. Inadequacies in such methods frequently lead to lack of substantiation of valid allegations and may also reinforce false allegations of sexual abuse. The literature concerning the types and quality of evidence obtainable from children is then reviewed, other assessment methods are described and evaluated, and the need for systematic interviews and evaluations is demonstrated.

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